Performance of normal-hearing listeners on the Repeat-Recall test in different noise configurations

Abstract

Objective

This study measured the performance of normal-hearing listeners on the Repeat-Recall Test (RRT) in two noise types (2-talker babble [2TBN] and continuous speech-shaped noise [SSN]) by two noise azimuths (0° and 180°) configurations at signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of 0, 5, 10, and 15 dB and quiet.

Design

Within-subject repeated measures.

Study sample

Twenty-one listeners with normal hearing who also passed cognitive screening were tested in the sound-field with the speech stimulus presented from 0° at 75 dB SPL in 4 noise configurations. The order of SNRs, noise configurations, and RRT topic conditions was counterbalanced across listeners.

Results

Analysis revealed that repeat scores were significantly better for 2TBN, for noise at 180°, and for high context (HC) sentences. Recall performance was significantly better for SSN and HC sentences. Listening effort ratings were higher for SSN and for noise front condition at SNR ≤ 10 dB. The 2TBN noise was tolerated longer than SSN. Performance on all measures improved with SNRs.

Conclusions

These data showed performance differences among noise configurations and provided a preliminary basis for comparison with hearing-impaired listeners’ performance on the RRT.

Keywords:

• Repeat-Recall test
• noise configurations
• realistic signal-to-noise ratios

Disclosure statement

All the authors are employees of WS Audiology.